Size 12ish Sneakers: A Round Up

I’m convinced that the end of Birkenstock season is really only survivable thanks to one thing: SNEAKERS.

I love them for their physical comfort (especially when my FitBit says girl you gotta move), but even more, I love them for their sartorial comfort. A full-on outfit with full-on heels can make me feel like I’m trying too hard, whereas sneakers always manage to inject the right amount of “cool” and keep me from feeling too dressed or too done.

Blessed with size 12 feet and a love for shoes, I’ve had to learn to get a little creative. Especially when it comes to sneakers, my go-to tip is to shop the men’s collections — as guys have come to care more about fashion, their shoe options have gotten really good! I see so many men’s sneakers that (no offense guys) could easily be women’s or unisex.

Two examples: my Saint Laurent dazzlers and my Joshua Sanders slip-ons. In both cases, I was able to get the exact same sneaker they make for women, just in my size, by purchasing through their men’s line.

It’s also worth knowing which women’s brands (sometimes) go up to a size 12. Nike happens to be one, though inventory can go fast, so I was really excited to score Kendall Jenner’s nude sneaks in my size (still available here!).

As for how to wear them, I’m a big proponent of mixing sneakers with just about everything. I love how a bright pair can add the right pop to an outfit of neutrals and I love how a nude pair (as with all nude shoes) can be so leg-lengthening with skirts.

If your outfit is lacking the perfect shoe, I would say there’s a good chance it needs a sneaker. Check out my outfit inspiration here and chime in on which look is your favorite!